Scott Butterworth Named CFO as Southern Cross Media CEO Steps Down

Leadership Transition Amid Strategic Shift

Southern Cross Media Group (ASX: SXL) has announced a sweeping change in its executive leadership team, signalling a new phase in the company’s evolution following the completion of its recent merger. Jeff Howard, who has served as Managing Director and CEO, has stepped down effective immediately, marking a clear break as the company accelerates its strategic agenda.

Heith Mackay-Cruise, who recently took over as Chairman after Kerry Stokes AC’s retirement, now assumes the role of Interim Executive Chairman. In this capacity, Mackay-Cruise will oversee all business units and corporate services, centralising leadership during this transitional period. The Board has also engaged an executive search firm to conduct a global hunt for Southern Cross Media’s next permanent CEO, underscoring the importance of securing leadership aligned with the company’s long-term vision.

Key Executive Appointments and Roles

In a notable appointment, Scott Butterworth joins as Chief Financial Officer, succeeding Craig Haskins who is set to retire at the end of February. Butterworth brings a wealth of experience from senior finance roles across major institutions and most recently as acting CEO and CFO at digital property platform PEXA. His expertise in strategic finance and transformation is expected to be pivotal as Southern Cross Media navigates its next chapter.

Meanwhile, John Kelly steps into the role of Interim CEO for the TV and Audio division, tasked with driving integration efforts across these key assets. Toby Potter, who has been with the company for over a decade and recently served as Interim CFO, is appointed Chief Transformation Officer for TV and Audio, focusing on operational and strategic transformation initiatives.

Strategic Implications and Market Outlook

The leadership changes come at a critical juncture as Southern Cross Media prepares to release its half-year financial results for 2026. The reshuffle reflects the Board’s intent to embed financial discipline and leverage industry expertise to scale and enhance performance across its multi-platform media assets, including the Seven Network and prominent radio networks.

Interim Executive Chairman Mackay-Cruise expressed confidence in the new leadership team’s ability to execute the company’s plans, highlighting the successful merger as a foundation for future growth. Investors will be watching closely to see how these leadership dynamics influence Southern Cross Media’s strategic execution and market positioning in the coming months.